INCI: Copper Tripeptide-1
Tripeptide-copper complex that stimulates synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans. Accelerates wound healing and exerts anti-inflammatory effects.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Wound and post-surgical studies show accelerated regeneration. Anti-aging RCTs are limited by small samples and industry sponsorship. In vitro effects are well documented, but more large clinical trials are needed.
0.1–1% (as peptide)
Copper Peptides GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1) is the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine complexed with copper. Discovered in 1973 in human plasma by Loren Pickart: the blood level at 60 is 6 times lower than at 20. In skin GHK-Cu activates fibroblasts, stimulates collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and accelerates wound regeneration. Mechanism. Copper binding increases the metal's availability to lysyl oxidase and superoxide dismutase. GHK-Cu suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and stimulates angiogenesis. At the molecular level it modulates the expression of more than 4000 genes, as shown by Pickart 2018 transcriptomic analysis. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams, post-procedure recovery products (after microneedling, laser, chemical peels), scalp formulas (stimulate hair growth). In Spain – The Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%, Niod CAIS 3, Mesoestetic AOX Ferulic, Mediderma Glycopeel post-care. Evidence base. Leyden 2002 RCT in 67 women with photoaging: GHK-Cu cream over 12 weeks improved fine lines and skin density vs placebo. Finkley 2005 showed stimulation of collagen synthesis in skin biopsies. In trichology GHK-Cu is part of PRP protocols and topical hair growth treatments. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Irritation rare. No direct sun photosensitization, but the bright blue-green color of the product (typical of copper) sometimes alarms users. Controversies. Don't combine with vitamin C in the same serum – ascorbic acid reduces copper to ionic form, which destroys the peptide complex. Use them at different times of day (no copper needed in the morning, use in the evening; vitamin C – in the morning). Pregnancy and lactation – insufficient data. The breastfeeding safety profile is indirectly normal; for pregnancy manufacturers recommend caution – it's safer to switch to copper-free peptides during that period. Best suited to: mature skin, post-procedure care, mild and moderate photoaging, barrier recovery support. One of the most evidence-supported peptides in dermatologic cosmetics.
Irritation potential
LowThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Safety data for Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) suits: normal, dry, sensitive, combination.
Tripeptide-copper complex that stimulates synthesis of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans.
The INCI name is Copper Tripeptide-1. It may also appear as: GHK-Cu, Copper Peptides, Медные пептиды.
0.1–1% (as peptide)
Published: · updated:
Allergen risk
LowPregnancy
UnknownSuitable for